THE CHIEFS MADE light of their poor record in South Africa, running in eight tries in a 21 – 60 rout of the Stormers in Cape Town.
The new 18-team format meant this afternoon’s quarter-final was the first time the South African side was pitted against Kiwi opposition this season, and the men from Waikato showed them what they’ve been missing.
Vincent Koch’s 10th minute try gave the home side a lead that was to be as good things got for the Newlands faithful. The Chiefs’ clinical passing and ferocious breakdown efforts ensured they were on the front foot more often than not. And with Damien McKenzie unerring off the kicking tee, tries from Sam McNicol and Brad Weber had them 17 -7 to the good just seven minutes later.
From there, there was no looking back for the 2013 champions. Tom Sanders and James Lowe made it four first half tries before Koch crossed for a second try that already looked like a consolation with the score 14 – 34 at half-time.
McKenzie got in on the try-scoring himself after the break, finishing off a terrific flowing move to help him on his way to 25 points for the day.
Semi-final shake-up
With 10 minutes to play, Nizaam Carr gave the home crowd a score to shout about before the headed for the exits, and those who left early might be glad that they missed seeing the Stormers ripped to shreds. Replacements Hika Elliott, Tevita Koloamatangi and Tawera Kerr-Barlow contributing the three tries in the last five minutes as Dave Rennie’s men made it to 60 before the hooter.
The weekend’s results mean that the Chiefs will be back in New Zealand next weekend, but away to top seeds Hurricanes, who were 41 – 0 victors over the Sharks this morning.
The Highlanders must stay on the road, as they will head to Johannesburg to take on the Lions.
The42 is on Snapchat! Tap the button below on your phone to add!
